Reading Signals from Molecular Device

Before we look at the preparation and functionality of various molecular devices, we will first consider how evaluate the state of a molecular device. Evaluating the state of a molecular device is often deeply connected to an important process reading the signal from a device. Molecular devices are usually combined with external devices that can take in signals from the device and convert them into a form that we can understand and interpret. Therefore, it is important to understand the methods used to evaluate molecular device state. 

Analyses of ultrathin films are also conducted via spectroscopic methods, but higher sensitivity is usually required. tt-A isotherm measurement 

Methods for directly observing supermolecules have recently been developed. Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) has become a particularly useful method in the field of nanotechnology. The general concept of SPM is summarized in Fig. 5.3. A very fine tip is used in this method. As the tip approaches the sample surface, various interactions occur between the tip and the surface which result in various kinds of forces (such as atomic forces). These forces are felt by the tip and converted into electrical signals. 

In practical molecular devices, the supramolecular system is sometimes immobihzed on an external devices which reads the output from the system. An electrode is a typical example of this kind of external device. Various electrodes with ultrasmall dimensions are available, and are therefore well-suited to molecular device preparation. Electrodes can also be used as a soHd support for LB films and self-assembled monolayers. In the example shown 

Note that the QCM detects a very general parameter, the change in mass. Therefore, QCM sensing systems can be applied to a wide range of substances independent the properties of the guest. With appropriate immobihzed supramolecular system design, QCM systems can be used to check for various guest molecules, such as nucleic acid, rectin and viruses. 

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Reading Signals from Molecular Devices In order to make use of the... 

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